Wednesday: 20.April.2005

Final Thoughts: Dell 8400 Desktop PC

Done configuring the new PC. (Refer to entry for the 11th.) Loaded it with all the best freeware. Running a stability test right now. Had to run both Folding@Home and Prime95 Torture Test to get the CPU to run at 100%. And I had to select the Torture Test option: In-place large FFTs (maximum heat, power consumption).

The system is running max'ed out & passing every test with flying colors. I'm impressed. Never once did I have to hit the reset button, or even give the familiar three-finger salute (ctrl-alt-del). If the system is still running when I wake in the morning (no lock-up or crash), it will be good to go: RAD-certified.

••• continued •••

Besides the gripe I had about Dell no longer including a Windows CD with the shipment (oh, they're now sending the CD after I complained), I was disappointed to see the video card drivers were almost a year old. I mean, a new PC should ship with new drivers, no? So I had to download & update those myself. Most drivers needed updating.

I'm diggin' this Logitech MX500 mouse. I thought it was PS2, but it's USB. I normally don't like USB mice, but this one is sweet. No problems. I would buy one for myself. Has a great textured feel. Almost like suede. (Currently using a trackball cuz it's easier on my tendons.)

What else? The system came with SP2 pre-installed. That was cool, but I hate how Dell installs all this krapware (trialware). I asked them to leave it out, but they said I had no choice. Dell must get kick-backs from companies (like AO Hell) to install their trialware. First thing I did was uninstall it all. Took me nearly 30 minutes.

I used to focus on performance. Now I'm most interested in stability, and the i925X chipset is certainly stable. I'll be delivering this badboy to its new owners later this evening. Gonna miss it. I'd feel comfortable recommending one to anybody interested in system longevity. Two more benchmarks for you to compare (Sandra):